County Hall in Dorchester will be lit up in yellow and blue and the Ukrainian flag flown from the building as residents show its support for the country.

Dorset Council leader, councillor Spencer Flower has spoken out about the terrible situation in Ukraine.

"We are all deeply saddened by the tragic events unfolding in Ukraine. Our thoughts are with those affected by this conflict," he said.

"We recognise that there will be people within our own community affected by this situation. We are working closely with voluntary and community groups to provide support. I particularly want to thank Dorset Race Equality Council (DREC) for their work supporting local communities who are facing prejudices, and who are also helping to organise local donations.

"Many of us want to know how we can help, and it is wonderful to see the incredible generosity of Dorset residents in making donations to support the people of Ukraine. The advice from local and national charities is that the best way to help is to make a cash donation to an organisation such as the British Red Cross or Save the Children who are responding to the humanitarian crisis. These organisations are already working on the ground and can direct support in the quickest and most appropriate ways.

"As shown with the recent conflicts in Syria and Afghanistan, councils across the country have a proud history of welcoming refugees. We stand ready to work with the Government to support any scheme helping those fleeing the conflict.

"To show our solidarity with the people of Ukraine we will shortly be flying the Ukraine flag from County Hall and also lighting up County Hall in yellow and blue. Thank you to our contractor, Turrell, who have agreed to do this at no charge to show their support.

"We pray for the people of Ukraine that this conflict will end soon and our hope is for peace and for an end to so much unnecessary suffering."